As state and local officials warn about a "spring surge" of new COVID-19 cases, the University of Pittsburgh is planning precautionary measures ahead of its commencement ceremonies.
Pitt will enact a shelter in place order for its students beginning April 16, two weeks before the start of the University’s in-person commencement ceremonies.
The decision comes after a surge in new cases among University students and staff last week. Pitt reported Friday there were more than 70 students in isolation with active cases of COVID-19 at its Oakland campus. Forty-two students tested positive over the course of just three days.
The university is expected to announce updated figures on Tuesday.
Pitt officials say they are concerned about increased transmission rates on campus after cases of the UK variant were detected.
The surge comes at the same time that new cases are on the rise in Pennsylvania and Allegheny County.
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